Electric energy meter is in every apartment. The exception is houses that have a completely autonomous power supply (solar panels, windmills), but there are relatively few such houses. That is why today we will talk about the types of electric meters and everything connected with them. After all, the question is very relevant.
Types of electricity meters
There are several types of devices of this type, they differ in the principle of their work and execution. You can divide all existing electricity meters into two large groups, these are:
- induction models;
- electronic counters;
Different types of devices work on their characteristic principles, but it should be noted that the type of device does not affect the accuracy of the electric meter in any way, because before sale, all energy meters are calibrated and tested in the relevant organizations that have the right to carry out such activities. These companies are independent, so there can be no catch in this matter. Although there are errors, they arelimits, but more on that below.
Induction electricity meters
A popular type of electricity meters. The electric meter of induction type is widespread. This is the same version with a rotating disk that everyone is used to. The meter works based on the principle of a magnetic field. This field is formed from a pair of coils (a voltage coil and a current coil). The magnetic field created during operation sets the disk in motion. The disk rotates and starts the counting mechanism. If the voltage and current increase, then the disk starts to spin faster. It's simple, the physics of the school curriculum!
The minus in the operation of such counters is their accuracy, which, although it is within acceptable standards, could be better. The accuracy is about 2.5 units. Why buy such counters? These models are very reliable, they can easily serve for more than a dozen years, some manufacturers set a warranty period of up to 15 years for such devices!
Electronic electricity meters
This is a relatively new type of electricity meters. The principle of its operation is based on measuring the current and voltage in the mains. There are no unnecessary intermediate mechanisms and other things, for this reason the accuracy of the device is very high. All readings are displayed on a special display, and are also stored in the memory of the meter itself in digital form. These counters have several strengths:
- Models are compact.
- There is always a multi-tariff function.
- You can significantly improve the accuracy of the reading,supplementing the device with an additional microcircuit.
- Easy to take readings from the display.
- It is very difficult to deceive this meter, because it has a built-in self-correction of readings.
- This is the so-called anti-magnetic electricity meter (it cannot be stopped by a magnet).
The device also has disadvantages:
- expensive;
- unreliability;
Single-tariff and multi-tariff
Single-tariff electricity meters are the models that we are used to. But multi-tariff electricity meters are a kind of novelty for our consumer. Multi-tariff meters came into use of energy consumers relatively recently.
The main essence of such a device is to save money for consumers of electricity. You can consider the principle of operation of the device using the example of a multi-tariff electricity meter. The essence of saving lies in the difference in the cost of electrical energy depending on the time of day. As service companies explain, electricity is cheaper at some times due to the fact that there is no peak load on the network at this time (night hours, early morning).
Uneven loads on the power grid have a negative impact on its condition. This is precisely what determines the desire of companies supplying electricity to make the loads uniform by attracting citizens during unloaded hours by reducing prices for services during these periods of time. Living with a multi-tariff meter is not difficult, but some adjustment of the routine is requireddays.
For example, you should turn on the washing machine, dishwasher, slow cooker, etc. at night. Modern household appliances have timers with a delayed start, this is a very convenient feature for this situation. If you have an electric water heater, you can also get into the habit of showering/bathing before bed or early in the morning while your best rates are in effect. If some household appliances do not have a timer function, then you can separately purchase a so-called "smart socket" for it.
It is also worth knowing that electricity in rural areas is cheaper for the consumer than in the city.
Automatic counters
This is a novelty for our market. Automatic meters are a kind of electronic models. The electricity meter transmitting readings works independently and does not require your participation. It's comfortable and modern. Many people combine the work of such meters with automatic payment for electricity from a bank card. This is practical, because you do not participate in any data transfer or payment for services at all. Everything happens automatically. Reporting electricity meters have not yet become very common, but they are being chosen by more and more people who install or change an electricity meter. According to experts, such models will tightly enter into the everyday life of our fellow citizens in 10-15 years.
The advantages of multitariffing
Of course, there are plusessuch counters, let's try to name the main ones:
- Noticeable money savings (the meter will pay for itself in a year or less).
- Help for power plants (reducing the cost of repairs and saving fuel).
- Reduce hazardous and harmful emissions into the atmosphere.
For an average user, the help of a power plant and emissions into the atmosphere are usually of little interest, but reducing cash costs is always an important and pleasant moment.
Flaws
You can always find both pros and cons. We have already said about the advantages of this type of counters, it's time to raise the issue of disadvantages. There are not many disadvantages, the most important of them is a special way of life, adjusted to the tariffs of the meter, if you do not adjust to the tariffs, then no savings will come out, and perhaps the expenses will also increase. How much does an electric meter with multiple tariffs cost? It all depends on the specific model. Multi-tariff models are more expensive than single-tariff counterparts, but they quickly pay for themselves.
Instrument accuracy class
This parameter implies a certain error in the readings, which is inevitable, but its value can vary markedly. According to the current rules, the accuracy class of electricity meters must be 2 or higher. You can always find out this parameter by buying yourself a counter in a store. Most often, the accuracy class is indicated both on the device itself and in the instructions for it.
Meter power
This is perhaps one of the most important characteristics. Power must be considered when buyingelectric meter. Before buying, you need to calculate the energy consumption of you and your family for one day. After these calculations and based on them, you can go for the device. There are household electricity meters that are rated for currents from 5 to 100 A. How much does an electricity meter cost, depending on power? Models that are designed for serious loads are always more expensive, but the difference in price is not critical. A 100A model can be bought from 2 thousand rubles. A 60 A model will cost 800-1000 rubles or more.
Method of fixing the device
Many people think about how to remove the electricity meter? This is done by a qualified craftsman, if you do not have the appropriate permission, then you should not perform such work, it would be more correct to contact specialists. All modern electric meters are fixed on a special, so-called DIN rail or on bolts.
Terms of use of energy meters
There are meters that can only work in heated rooms, but there are also all-weather outdoor models of devices. You yourself determine which option you need, taking into account all the features of operation. Models for warm rooms are cheaper.
Which model of electric energy meter to choose
First, decide on the power of the device. To do this, sum up all the power consumption of the devices and add a third of the resulting figure to the reserve. If you get a power not exceeding 10 kilowatts, then buy a 60 amp model. If the average power per day exceeds 10 kilowatts, then buy a model for 100 amperes. This is an example calculation.
Next, decide on the type of device (mechanical, electronic, one-rate, two-rate). Sometimes the financial aspect becomes key in such a matter. If the financial issue does not interest you, but you still have problems with the choice, then seek the advice of a specialist, he will definitely help you. For example, a one-rate mechanical device is suitable for a summer residence. After all, saving energy only once a week is very inappropriate, while you will not need to guess when the main appliances turn on.
After that, you need to resolve the issue with the type of counter mounting. Experts recommend the option with a DIN rail. It is convenient, simple, modern and versatile. Also pay attention to the manufacturer of the device, this is an important factor. A quality counter from a good and reliable manufacturer can only be found in a specialized store.
